Education with a blend of enforcement toward aggressive panhandlers is the approach Worcester police are taking toward the new panhandler regulations approved by the City Council.

“We're not going out there to aggressively arrest panhandlers,” Police Chief Gary J. Gemme said. “We're taking more of a long-term approach to handle this issue.”

As of 4 p.m. today no arrests had been made. There were only a few panhandlers out today, possibly because of the wet weather, but those police encountered were given informational cards, Chief Gemme said.

Officers working the Patrol Division have been provided with informational packets, including the language of the ordinance, along with a list of programs available for those in need of help. The officers are also being educated on the ins and outs of the regulations.

Officers will give people begging for money an index-card sized handout listing a short synopsis of the regulations along with a hotline number for social services. People are also directed to the Greater Worcester Housing Connection at 701 Main St.

Chief Gemme said panhandlers have to be informed about the rules. The hope is there will be voluntary compliance after the education process is complete, he said.

The new ordinances don't ban panhandling, but restrict where it can be done. Sidewalks and streets are still in play, but aggressive panhandling is restricted within 20 feet of several locations such as outdoor seating areas, automated teller machines, etc.

There are no plans to create a patrol dedicated exclusively to enforcing the new regulations, the chief said. The duty will be part of the regular services completed by the patrol officers.

Anyone found guilty of violating the ordinances can be punished by a fine of up to $50, or the court can impose community service.

Soliciting cash from drivers while standing in a street, walking into traffic or standing on a traffic island is against the law. Frequently panhandlers station themselves on traffic islands around the city – some in the downtown area – and often walk into traffic to collect money from drivers.

Two councilors voted against the two ordinances putting the regulations into place.

They stressed concerns over giving police another task as resources continue to be stretched.

The ordinances prohibit what is described as aggressive panhandling, and those in violation will be arrested, the chief said. Aggressive panhandling is defined as touching a person, blocking a walkway or vehicle, using violent gestures or profane language.

As the case in many new laws, the chief said officers will warn people as well.

“We want to make sure people are aware of the ordinances and aware of their obligations,” Chief Gemme said. “Once people understand the ordinance and once a few arrests are made we believe we will see voluntary compliance.”

The chief said he understands the issue of panhandling and the regulations are geared toward quality of life and public safety in the roadways. He also knows some panhandlers need help overcoming substance abuse and other problems.